Hollywood is mourning the loss of one of its most beloved comedians and actresses. Catherine O’Hara, the Emmy-winning veteran known for iconic roles in Home Alone, Beetlejuice, Schitt’s Creek, and an astonishing body of work spanning five decades, died on Friday, January 30, 2026, at the age of 71. Her passing was confirmed by her agency, which said she died following a brief illness at her home in Los Angeles.
Fans around the world will remember O’Hara for her warmth, wit, and chameleonic ability to switch from uproarious comedy to emotional depth with effortless grace. She first rose to prominence in the 1970s as a foundational member of the influential sketch comedy series SCTV, where her comedic instincts and character work helped shape the careers of a generation of performers.
Her film career included standout turns as the memorable Delia Deetz in Beetlejuice and the harried but loving Kate McCallister in Home Alone and its sequel — roles that have become part of pop culture’s DNA. More recently, her portrayal of Moira Rose on the Emmy-winning comedy Schitt’s Creek cemented her status as a modern icon and earned her major awards and global acclaim.
O’Hara’s versatility extended beyond comedy into voice work and dramatic parts, and she continued acting into her later years with appearances in projects such as Apple TV+’s The Studio and HBO’s The Last of Us.
Tributes from across the entertainment world began pouring in almost immediately. Co-stars and collaborators — from Macaulay Culkin, who fondly remembered her as “Mama” from Home Alone, to Schitt’s Creek colleagues and fellow comedians — honored her influence, generosity, and humor in heartfelt posts and statements.
O’Hara is survived by her husband, production designer Bo Welch, and their two sons. Her legacy as a comedic force, storyteller, and beloved performer will continue to resonate with audiences for generations.
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